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GERD: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

What is GERD?

When we eat, food passes from the throat and into the stomach through a tube. This tube is the esophagus (ee-SOFF-uh-gus). Sometimes it’s called the food pipe. At the bottom is a ring of muscles that acts as a valve between the esophagus and stomach. This is the lower esophageal (ee-soff-uh-GEE-ol) sphincter (ss-FINK-ter).

These muscles in the lower esophagus can become weak. Food, smoking, and alcohol may weaken the sphincter, so it may stop closing properly. The contents in the stomach then may leak back, or “reflux,” into the esophagus. This problem is called “GERD.” GERD is short for gastroesophageal (GAS-trow-ee-soff-uh-GEE-ol) reflux disease.

GERD’s Most Common Symptom

Heartburn is the most common symptom of GERD. When acid in the stomach refluxes, it touches the lining of the esophagus. This can cause a burning feeling in your chest or throat. We call this sensation heartburn or acid indigestion. You can have heartburn once in a while without having GERD. But if you have heartburn more than twice a week, it’s likely you have GERD.

Other Symptoms of GERD

If you don’t have heartburn, you can still have GERD. Some other symptoms of GERD are clearing your throat often, trouble swallowing, feeling like food is stuck in your throat, burning in your mouth, and pain in your chest.

When to See a Doctor

GERD can lead to more serious health problems over time. If you have any symptoms listed above, or if you use antacids more than 2 weeks, call your primary doctor or internal medicine specialist.

How GERD is Treated

Treatments for GERD include lifestyle changes, medicine, and surgery. Your doctor will prescribe the treatment plan that is best for you.

Lifestyle Changes to Reduce GERD

For relief from GERD, follow the guidelines below:

Avoid all foods that cause you physical distress.

Stop using tobacco in any form. The nicotine in tobacco weakens the esophageal sphincter.

Do not drink alcohol, which relaxes the sphincter.

Avoid hard candy, chewing gum, and soda drinks. When you chew gum or suck on hard candy, you swallow more air. Soda drinks, which are carbonated, contain air. Using these products can cause belching and reflux.

Eat 5 or 6 small meals during the day, not 3 large ones.

Eat slowly — take small mouthfuls and chew well.

Avoid the foods listed below, which increase reflux:

Food that is very hot or very cold

Fatty or fried foods

Peppermint or spearmint, including flavoring

Coffee, tea, and soft drinks that contain caffeine

Spicy, highly seasoned foods

Tomato-based dishes, such as spaghetti with sauce, chili, and pizza

Citrus fruits and juices, especially in the morning

Chocolate and sweets, if they cause symptoms

Do not lie down right after you eat. Remain upright for at least 2 hours.

For help in finding a doctor or health service that suits your needs, call the UPMC Referral Service at 412-647-UPMC (8762) or 1-800-533-UPMC (8762). Select option 1.

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